Nollywood Loses Another Star: Iyabo Oko Passes Away at 62

Sade AdewaleJune 29, 2023

1 minute read

The Nigerian film industry, especially the Yoruba sector, has been hit by another sad news. Veteran actress Odukanmi Kudirat, popularly known as Iyabo Oko, has died after a long battle with an undisclosed ailment.

According to her daughter, Bisi Aisha, a female soldier who confirmed the news on social media, Iyabo Oko died on Wednesday, June 28, 2023. She wrote, “May ur soul Rest in Peace Mummy”.

Iyabo Oko was a well-known face in the Nigerian film industry, particularly in Yoruba films. She started her acting career in 1973 under the platform of Eda Onileola theatre troupe. She rose to prominence for her role as Iyabo Oko in the film Oko. She has appeared in several movies such as Omo Oshodi, Owo Blow, Baba Darijinwon, and many others.

The actress had been away from the movie scene for years due to her health challenges. She was once reported to have died some years back, but the story was later debunked when her daughter came out to note that her mum was still alive.

Her death is coming weeks after her junior colleague, Murphy Afolabi died in a controversial circumstance. Her death has also sparked reactions from fans and colleagues who have taken to social media to mourn her demise and pay tribute to her legacy.

Iyabo Oko was a card-carrying member of the All Progressive Congress (APC) and she was part of the group of Nollywood actors and actresses that canvassed for people to get their PVC in 2015. She revealed during this campaign that she was formerly a member of the PDP but she discovered that they had nothing to offer that was why she decamped.

She is survived by her children and grandchildren. May her soul rest in peace.